Discovering the Suburban, Lush, and Spiritual Oasis of Plantation, FL

Plantation, Florida may not be among the most famous destinations in the state for spiritual seekers but this laidback suburb is home to some unique religious and sacred places that are worth exploring. Nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Sunrise, Plantation offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the diversity of its population. Here are some highlights.

One cant mention Plantations spiritual landscape without talking about St. Gregory The Great Catholic Church (200 N University Dr). Founded in 1961 as a humble mission church with only a few members, it has turned into one of the largest parishes in Broward County with over 4k families today. Walking into St.Gregorys majestic sanctuary gives you an immediate sense of transcendence thanks to its towering stainedglass windows imported from France, woodbeamed ceilings adorned by hanging chandeliers made from Murano glass beads crafted in Italy.

For those who prefer Eastern spirituality or seek somber introspection amidst natures beauty will want visit Wat Buddharangsi Temple (15200 SW 240th Street). Located on sprawling acreage on land near Redland just southwest of MiamiDade County line it offers stunning views across greenery wellwatered fields typical during rainy season ending May thru October each year which depicts compassionate love toward all beings glorifying Buddha at his numerous statues scattered along walking trail dotted nicely trough coconut trees until arriving temple itself showing off goldleafed chedi spires rising skyward amid four graceful viharns.

Meanwhile,the AfricanAmerican Research Library and Cultural Center (2650 Sistrunk Blvd) provides insight into African diasporic spirituality with resources ranging from books penned by Black theologians to exhibitions featuring traditional rites like Candomble which reflect roots traced back through time when their ancestors were forcefully brought here as slaves. The buildings modernist design and its vast collection of cultural artifacts are a testament to the perseverance of Black heritage in America.

If you drive a halfhour northeast from Plantation, amid bustling streets of North Miami Beach, the citys Bhai Temple (20810 NW 37th Ave) is truly an unexpected oasis unlike anything else. This stunning complex designed after iconic Taj Mahal owes its origin to Sikhs who found spiritual refuge already in South Florida more than thirty years ago. Dont miss their Langar it means free food for allcomersseekingspiritualnourishment regardless religious persuasion.

Finally, if youre looking for offthebeatenpath places that invite personal contemplation and solitude then visit My Flora Aura Crystal Shop & Energy Healing Center (26 SE 4th St). Tucked away on a cozy street corner is this metaphysical haven where one can explore different healing modalities such as reiki, sound baths or crystal grids not so common everywhere be cleansed by sage smudging rituals or purchase crystals like amethysts whose energy helps with cleansing negative patterns while promoting restorative sleep cycles.

As evident from these diverse sites and experiences abovementioned interest seekers can find something spiritually refreshing any time they come here looking outwards while within themselves exploring physical existence around us calling forth profound questions about meaning living fully embodied life guided onward through Spiritinfused paths giving absolutely everything purpose sense direction flow along surprisingly interesting ways.